The Hawk Shadow

Synopsis:

A pitch-perfect story about sibling bonds and Anishinaabe cultural traditions, from the bestselling author of SkySisters.

Serenity is following her brother, Big Ed, to his fishing spot on Hawk River. Big Ed explains that the river is named for the Hawk, Gekek, the Keepers of the river and their Protectors. “They see things far off in the distance, things we can't,” he tells Serenity. Later, when Big Ed gets in trouble while fishing, Serenity follows the Hawk's shadow to come to her brother's aid. Bestselling author Jan Bourdeau Waboose showcases Indigenous storytelling traditions in this compelling picture book featuring Ojibwe words and cultural practices. Karlene Harvey's brightly colored illustrations stunningly capture the natural world of the bush. The sibling relationship, full of teasing and admonitions, is pitch-perfect, and will be relatable to readers of any age. This captivating book, with its rich narrative and riveting climax, is a wonderful choice for reading aloud. It's an excellent accompaniment to social studies lessons on cultures, local and global communities, and Indigenous Peoples. It also offers a perfect opportunity to encourage children to notice the natural world where they live.

Reviews
"The Hawk Shadow is a rich and tender story by Jan Bourdeau Waboose, an Anishinaabe author from the Bear Clan in Northern Ontario, with illustrations by Karlene Harvey, a Tsilhqot’in and Syilx artist from Vancouver. It follows Serenity and her big brother, Big Ed, as they journey to Hawk Lake to fish. Along the way, Serenity meets the Hawk Shadow, a river guardian who sees beyond the visible world and guides her through a moment of crisis. Rooted in Waboose’s family and community traditions, the story is infused with Indigenous Knowledge, love, and respect for the land. The Hawk Shadow is more than a tale of kinship and adventure; it’s a poetic reflection of Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being." -  Anika L., Middle School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 7.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for K to 6 classrooms for English Language Arts. 

Additional Information
32 pages | 10.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover